HERMISTON, Ore.-The Hermiston City Council approved the expansion of the city’s urban growth boundary (UGB) by over 800 acres at its regular meeting on September 8.
The Council voted 7-1 to approve the expansion of the UGB in the South Hermiston Industrial Park by about 810 acres to accommodate future large-scale data centers.
“This is a big step for us. It opens our area up to more growth, and it is important that we make those accommodations and circumstances for where jobs can be created,” said Hermiston Mayor Doug Primmer.
Hermiston’s 2024 Economic Opportunities Analysis identified a shortage of large industrial parcels over 100 acres within the existing UGB, specifically hyperscale data centers, which could bring significant economic investment, according to the City.
A public hearing on the UGB expansion was held on August 25, and the City Council previously approved the first reading of the ordinance by a 7-1 vote.
The Umatilla County Planning Commission will now consider the UGB expansion ordinance for co-adoption before the Board of County Commissioners considers it at their October meeting.
“I know that many people are concerned about the influx of people to fill new jobs being created in the community, but I’m hopeful that with the job training programs through Blue Mountain Community College that our local constituents will fill those jobs in the long run,” said Roy Barron, City Councilor.
The UGB expansion agenda item, including exhibits shared at the City Council meeting, are available online.
The Hermiston City Council also advanced the formation of a Local Improvement District (LID) to upgrade NW 2nd Street between W. Elm Avenue and W. Cherry Avenue by a 7-1 vote on September 8.
The gravel road is considered a key connector and is expected to see higher traffic volumes following upcoming changes at the Elm Avenue/Highway 395 intersection, according to the City. The LID would finance improvements to the roadway through a cost-sharing model, with assessments to benefiting property owners and a $75,000 contribution from the City.
If the second reading of the proposed LID formation is approved at the September 22nd meeting, the City will proceed with full design of the project and prepare for bidding this fall, with construction anticipated to begin in Spring 2026.
Final costs will be assessed to benefiting property owners, according to the city. Property owners will then have the option to pay in full or finance payments over 10 years through the City.
